MalaysianUpdates

Category: Culinary Experiences

  • Mastercard Presents The Collection: Indulge in Exceptional Dining Through Its Asia Gourmet Circle Program

    Mastercard Presents The Collection: Indulge in Exceptional Dining Through Its Asia Gourmet Circle Program

    MALAYSIA – 12 MARCH 2026: Mastercard is taking premium dining to the next level with its Asia Gourmet Circle program, part of the exclusive Mastercard Collection. The program offers cardholders across 10 Asia-Pacific markets — including Australia, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, and mainland China — access to over 400 award-winning and premium restaurants. Designed for World Legend, World Elite, and World Select Mastercard holders, the Asia Gourmet Circle enables users to check real-time table availability and secure reservations with just a few clicks, whether at home or while traveling abroad.

    Cardholders can enjoy a curated selection of iconic dining establishments, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to Asia’s 50 Best list, such as Bennelong in Australia, Arbor in Hong Kong SAR, JAAN by Kirk Westaway in Singapore, HYOTEI HIBIYA in Japan, and Chim By Siam Wisdom in Thailand. Exclusive privileges include dining credits or complimentary wine for World Legend and World Elite Mastercard holders at selected restaurants in Australia, Hong Kong SAR, and Singapore, creating unique opportunities to savor culinary excellence with ease.

    Sandeep Malhotra, Executive Vice President of Core Payments, Asia Pacific at Mastercard, notes that experiential living is increasingly shaping consumer priorities, with dining emerging as one of the most meaningful ways to create lasting memories. The Asia Gourmet Circle program aligns with this trend by uniting travelers and food enthusiasts, reflecting the strong APAC appetite for culinary exploration — with 77% of consumers passionate about travel and 67% passionate about gastronomy.

    Through Asia Gourmet Circle, Mastercard reinforces its commitment to delivering elevated experiences that go beyond traditional financial services. Cardholders gain seamless access to exceptional flavors, intimate moments, and memorable celebrations, whether at home or across the globe. The program complements Mastercard Collection’s broader suite of perks, which also includes entertainment access, travel privileges, and lifestyle experiences, redefining what it means to hold a premium card.

    Explore the list of Asia Gourmet Circle restaurants here.
    For Asia Gourmet Circle bookings, visit: asiagourmetcircle.com/.
    Learn more about The Mastercard Collection benefits here: priceless.com/themastercardcollection.

  • Knai Bang Chatt in Kep West Unveils Festive “Year-End Escape” and New Year Art & Yoga Retreat

    Knai Bang Chatt in Kep West Unveils Festive “Year-End Escape” and New Year Art & Yoga Retreat

    Knai Bang Chatt by Kep West is inviting travellers to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 in soulful style with two uniquely curated experiences that celebrate connection, creativity, and the natural beauty of Cambodia’s coast. From December 28–31, 2025, the Year End Escape offers a festive coastal journey blending nostalgic rail travel, barefoot luxury, and immersive discovery. Guests can embark on a scenic train ride from Phnom Penh to Kep before settling into three nights at Knai Bang Chatt, Cambodia’s iconic seaside retreat. The four-day program features a series of curated experiences including rooftop cocktails at The Deck, a seafood celebration at Crab & Co., private island excursions with Marine Conservation Cambodia, and sunset cruises along Kep’s picturesque shoreline. The journey can be extended with a lively End-of-Year Party and New Year’s Brunch, providing the perfect coastal countdown to the new year.

    Immediately following, from January 1–4, 2026, the resort transforms into a sanctuary for reflection and creativity with the New Beginnings: Art & Yoga Retreat. Guided by yoga instructor Lana and artist Lolli, this four-day, three-night retreat focuses on mindful renewal through sunrise yoga, intuitive art sessions, meditation, and a creative excursion to Koh Po island. Participants are encouraged to reconnect with themselves through restorative practices, nourishing meals, and serene evenings under the stars, all within the tranquil surroundings of Knai Bang Chatt.

    Together, these two experiences encapsulate the philosophy of regenerative travel that Knai Bang Chatt is known for, offering journeys that rejuvenate both the traveller and the destination. Founder Jef Moons emphasizes that the programs are designed to close the year with gratitude and open the next with intention, allowing guests to move seamlessly from festive celebration to mindful restoration while enjoying the natural beauty and soulful charm of Cambodia’s coast.

    If you want, I can also craft a shorter, punchy version tailored for lifestyle or travel media that highlights the key experiences and dates. Do you want me to do that?